Northwestern State guard Jalan West is impeded by a LeTourneau defender in the Demons opener Nov. 8. Defensive contact is being more closely officiated this season.

Written by

Matt Vines
mattvines@shreveporttimes.com

College basketball players, coaches and fans have gotten a taste of how officials will emphasize less defensive contact this season.

The officials aren't allowing defenders to hand check - to use their hands or arms to impede the progress of an offensive player - which is leading to more fouls in the first two weeks of basketball as players adjust.

Northwestern State has only played one game, but the fast-paced Demons will get a better gauge after playing Friday at Auburn and Saturday at LSU. ...